Lloyd Masayumptewa installed as new Park Superintendent at Hubbell Trading Post a National Park.(photo courtesy of the Office of the Chairman of the Hopi Tribe)

On a cool, fall day under rustling cottonwood trees, Lloyd Masayumptewa was installed as new Superintendent, at the National Park Service, Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado, Arizona.

Masayumptewa, a member of the Hopi Tribe and paa is wungwa, is a farmer and rancher on the Hopi Reservation. He was joined by his mother, wife and sister at the Installation Ceremony. Also in attendance were Hopi Tribal Council Representatives: Lamar Keevama, Miona Kaping, staff of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman's offices, Friends of Hubbell Trading Post, Ganado Chapter and National Park Service staff from other surrounding parks were in attendance.

Masayumptewa has a BA and MA in Anthropology and Archaeology. He was employed with the Flagstaff Parks as an Archaeology Technician in 1998 and was promoted as Chief of Natural Resources at the Navajo National Monument in 2010.

In an opening statement, the NPS Group Supervisor said, "Masayumptewa's new job is unique as he has the responsibility to preserve and protect a historic property as well as continue operations of an active historic trading post relevant to the community. The challenge will be to balance unique challenges and be creative. Lloyd is the guy to do this."

American Indian Service Specialist Otis HalfMoon, (Nez Pierce), spoke of his personal and professional relationship with Masayumptewa.

HalfMoon said there is a voluntary group of Native American National Park Service (NPS) professionals who make up an organization called The Circle. Their mission is to hire and retain Native American NPS staff. The Circle is comprised Native Americans from the lower 48 states, Alaska, and Hawaii. Halfmoon said these individuals wear two hats: One is protecting, preserving and advocating the traditional culture of Tribes, and the other is the green-gray hat of the NPS; they walk in two worlds. They make up a unique leadership group and serve as role models for youth.

"The National Park Service needs new leadership as Superintendents. Lloyd shows that leadership. I am honored to call you my friend," said HalfMoon.

Hopi Chairman Herman G. Honanie, who was unable to attend the event, sent a congratulatory letter read by Councilman Keevama: "You have attained a huge responsibility but which no doubt you are well prepared to perform. There will be challenges but with your professional capability, confidence and experience you will meet these challenges. Please look to the Hopi Tribe for assistance and guidance in your professional development so that a strong and positive relationship will be developed with the National Park Service."

Vince James, Ganado Chapter President spoke in the Navajo language and stated that the Chapter is emphasizing the use of the Navajo language in the community for the children. This change will include signage in the Navajo language. He encourages the new Superintendent work with the community on youth work-learn projects and summer youth programs in farming and history of the trading post. For the elderly he requests assistance for weavers and maintaining the trading relationships.

James said, "Have courage and keep your head up with your family at your side."

"I am speechless; you have set the bar and expectations very high. I don't want to disappoint anyone," said Masayumptewa. "I will need your guidance, support and ideas." Masayumptewa pledged outreach to the local community and other tribes to work together.

The Hopi Tribe is proud of Masayumptewa's accomplishment!

Hubbell Trading Post NHS
The squeaky wooden floor greets your entry into the oldest operating trading post on the Navajo Nation. When your eyes adjust to the dim light in the "bullpen" you find you’ve just entered a mercantile. Hubbell's has been serving Ganado selling groceries, grain, hardware, horse tack, coffee and Native American Art since 1878. Discover Hubbell Trading Post NHS, where history is made every day.
http://www.nps.gov/hutr/index.htm